'India-Russia friendship is a time tested one': PM Modi reaches Delhi airport to welcome Putin

Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in Delhi on Thursday evening for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit. He landed at Delhi's Palam airport where Prime Minister Narendra Modi received him with a warm hug.

The two leaders then sat in the same car and left the airport for 7 Lok Kalyan Marg to sit for a dinner.

Taking to X, PM Modi highlighted India-Russia friendship and said, "Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people."

Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India. Looking forward to our interactions later this evening and tomorrow. India-Russia friendship is a time tested one that has greatly benefitted our people.@KremlinRussia_Epic.twitter.com/L7IORzRfV9

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2025

During the two-day visit, Putin will hold talks with PM Modi, focusing primarily on trade, investment, economy and defence. President Droupadi Murmu will also receive him and host a state banquet. He is likely to be accompanied by senior officials from the Russian government as well as leading figures from the country’s business community.